Councilmember Zachary Hilton was quick to become involved in civil service when he moved to his wife’s hometown of Gilroy in 2012. For years he served on the City’s bicycle pedestrian committee, where he fought to improve mobility and safety while promoting the usage of sustainable transportation. Now as a City Councilmember for Gilroy, Hilton passionately advocates for affordable housing and climate resilience.
Since taking office in 2016, Councilmember Hilton has championed the implementation and expansion of Gilroy’s first Climate Action Plan, creating a pathway for significant greenhouse gas reductions across the city. He also advocates against sprawl development while encouraging more climate-smart housing in Gilroy.
Hilton’s passion for climate resilience was catalyzed by his 23 years as a firefighter, where he witnessed firsthand the increasingly frequent and devastating wildfires resulting from climate change and their disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
Hilton’s extensive experience as a first responder has given him a unique perspective on the importance of emergency preparedness and proactive measures to mitigate climate change impacts. It’s this experience that drives Councilmember Hilton to lead local resilience efforts that not only protect Gilroy’s natural lands but also safeguard and improve the lives of residents.
Through his role on the City Council, Hilton continues to advocate for policies that promote sustainable practices and foster community resilience. His ultimate goal, in his words, is to achieve “a livable Gilroy for all.”